This weekend, the Contemporary Arts Center (CAC) will open its fourth exhibition this season, Refreshing America, curated by former Executive Director of the Jazz and Heritage Foundation Don Marshall. The exhibition features over 89 artists displaying visual works in the Helis Gallery on the second floor of the CAC which is located near the World War II Museum.
Each of the artists featured is based in New Orleans, but moved to the city from other countries. These artists use the culture and cultural practices of their countries of origin in their artistic work. Upon entering the exhibit, visitors will be immersed in a visual tapestry that shows both the uniqueness and connectedness of the human and American experience through the lens of these talented artists.
Don Marshall, a native of New Orleans, began his professional arts career in 1977 as the first Director of the Contemporary Arts Center (C.A.C.). He led the center’s transformation into one of the largest multi-disciplinary Alternative Arts Centers in the country. During his tenure, he curated more than 30 exhibitions at the C.A.C. and launched the coordinated gallery openings that became a signature of the local arts scene and inspired similar efforts nationwide.
As Director of Le Petit Théâtre, Marshall founded the Tennessee Williams Festival in partnership with a group organizing a New Orleans Literary Festival. He also brought together local artists and community activists to establish both the New Orleans Film Festival and the Krewe du Vieux.
In academia, Marshall directed the Cultural Resource Management Program at Southeastern Louisiana University and the Arts Administration Program at the University of New Orleans.
In 2004, Marshall became Executive Director of the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival and Foundation. He expanded the Foundation’s programming to fulfill its mission to promote, perpetuate, and support the music, arts, and culture of Louisiana. Following Hurricane Katrina, he led the creation of new events to celebrate Louisiana’s cultural legacy, including the Crescent City Blues & BBQ Festival, the Congo Square Rhythms Festival, the Treme Creole Gumbo Festival, and the Louisiana Cajun Zydeco Festival. He also convened the photography community to form the New Orleans Photo Alliance, a nonprofit that continues to support local photographers.
Refreshing America opens this Saturday, May 3, with an opening reception happening from 5-9 p.m. RSVP here. Regular ticketing rates apply during normal Saturday gallery hours of 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Click here for tickets.
